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An introduction to CAD & 3D modelling

In this lesson we will look at how prototypes and models are made and used in industry. Please note this lesson will require some additional equipment, beyond a pen, pencil or paper, to fully participate.

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An introduction to CAD & 3D modelling

In this lesson we will look at how prototypes and models are made and used in industry. Please note this lesson will require some additional equipment, beyond a pen, pencil or paper, to fully participate.

Download all resources
Share activities with pupils

Link copied to clipboard

These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

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These resources were created for remote use during the pandemic and are not designed for classroom teaching.

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. use 2D and begin to use 3D CAD packages to model their ideas
  2. produce 3D models to develop and communicate ideas

Equipment

Paper, pencil, coloured pencils, PlayDoh/blu tack, computer (TinkerCad), Product to observe and/or disassemble.

Content guidance

  • Equipment requiring safe usage.

Supervision

Adult supervision recommended

Licence

This content is made available by Oak National Academy Limited and its partners and licensed under Oak’s terms & conditions (Collection 1), except where otherwise stated.

Lesson video

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Starter quiz

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3 Questions

Q1.
A working model of a product made for testing is called what?
Beta model.
Preliminary model.
Prototype.
Correct answer: Test model.
Q2.
Which is not an advantage of 3D modelling?
You can make it to size or scale it up and down.
Correct answer: You can only see one side of the product.
You can understand how the components work together.
Q3.
Which industries model their product before manufacture?
Correct answer: All of the above.
Automotive design.
Early years children's toys designer.
Furnishings and interior design.
Water bottle and product design.

Exit quiz

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3 Questions

Q1.
A car company would use all these modelling methods, but which would be the last stage?
Aesthetic modelling.
Mock up.
Correct answer: Prototyping.
Q2.
What are the disadvantages of using CAD?
The computer helps with accuracy.
You can save and send your work easily.
You could easily change mistakes.
Correct answer: You will need to be trained to use specialist programmes.
Q3.
What are the advantages of 3D modelling? (Tick 2 boxes)
Can be time consuming and difficult to make.
Correct answer: Cardboard can be easily sourced and cheap.
Often can't be tested as they do not use the same materials as the final object.
Correct answer: You can physically handle the item.

Lesson appears in

UnitDesign and technology / Core design skills

Design and technology

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